Banner Health implements visitor restrictions due to influenza

High influenza rates and other seasonal illnesses have led Banner Health to put restrictions on visitors at all of its hospitals, including North Colorado Medical Center in Greeley, according to a news release sent Monday from Banner Health.

The following restrictions will be implemented through April 30: No visitors under the age of 13; no visitors with a fever, cough, vomiting or diarrhea; children ages 12 and younger must be supervised by an adult in public waiting areas and cafeterias; siblings who do not have cold or flu symptoms may visit a new baby in the obstetrics unit; and hospital authorities ask that visitors wash their hands frequently while at the hospital.

All Banner Health employees, employed physicians, volunteers and students received a flu vaccination by Dec. 1. Those who were unable to receive the vaccination because of medical or religious reasons are required to wear a mask while in care settings during the flu season.

NCMC has diagnosed 134 cases since the beginning of flu season in October. The hospital saw its highest number of positive flu tests this past month, the release stated.